Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth has left his role after just five months, according to reports.
Ashworth officially began work at Old Trafford on July 1 after a lengthy period of gardening leave at his former club Newcastle United.
However, his shock departure is said to have been agreed in a meeting with United CEO Omar Berrada after last night’s defeat by Nottingham Forest.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s part-owner, was reportedly pivotal in the decision although sources have told The Athletic that the club instigated the exit.
United say the agreement to rip up Ashworth’s contract was mutual.
Ashworth, 53, was appointed to oversee football performance, recruitment and operations at the club and reported to Berrada, a recent arrival from Manchester City.
In turn, Jason Wilcox, United’s technical director, worked under Ashworth as part of the new-look hierarchy implemented by Ratcliffe.
Ashworth was involved in the Red Devils’ £200million spending spree during the summer with Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee also recruited as part of the substantial outlay.
He was subsequently quoted in the statements confirming each signing.
More to follow.
